FESTIVE revellers in Warrington will have the chance of a Christmas lunch with a difference this year – aboard Britain’s poshest train

A slap-up seven-course meal with wine will be served up aboard the Northern Belle, Britain’s version of the luxury Orient Express.

And despite the hefty £260-a-head fare, tickets are selling fast.

Father Christmas is even expected to put in an appearance as a historic locomotive hauls the seven 1930s-style Pullman carriages on a five-hour round trip through the countryside.

And with champagne flowing, Northern Belle managing director Jeanette Snape said: “It promises to be a cracker of a day.

Warrington Guardian:

“Our onboard chef Matthew Green is planning a delicious festive meal.

“But we advise people to book soon because places usually sell out quickly.”

The Northern Belle carriages, all named after stately homes or castles, have been carefully renovated by craftsmen with tapestries, marquetry and mosaics.

Earlier this year they were pulled by the iconic Flying Scotsman, the first steam locomotive to reach 100mph and travel non-stop between London and Edinburgh.

Warrington Guardian:

Jeanette added: “The train harks back to the golden days of rail travel when the journey itself was as important as the destination.

“Nothing is too good for passengers on the Northern Belle.”

The train’s resident musicians will entertain passengers during the journey while a conjuror wanders from table to table to add a little touch of magic.

Liveried stewards will welcome passengers on board at Bank Quay Station at 11.30am on Wednesday, December 18.

The train will also pick up passengers at Liverpool Lime Street at noon and Wigan North Western at 12.30. It is scheduled to arrive back in Warrington at 5pm.

For further details see northernbelle.co.uk or phone 01270 899681.